On Tuesday, U.S. legislators heard testimony from Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson and Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke, the TARP bailout seems to ire everyone — and few can agree what to do with the Big 3 automakers. CNBC's experts offered their views on the economy — and actually found reason for investor hope.

Stocks will likely rock and roll again Thursday. Wednesday's market was particularly volatile, although for a good part of the day it was unusually calm as investors waited for the Fed's rate decision. In the final half hour, the Dow wiped out a big gain to end 74 points lower. The Dow was up 298 at its peak, and down 174 at its low point.

OPEC ministers went ahead with a decision to reduce oil output, as they set out to defend the $100 price level for crude oil. ... The majority of members prevailed upon a reluctant Saudi Arabia to go along with the reduction. It is not surprising to see Saudi Arabia go along...